Well-known philanthropist and author (Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give), Jean Shafiroff hosted her annual holiday luncheon at Michael’s on Thursday, December 15, 2016. Some 45 invitees attended the luncheon, which draws top names in politics, society, philanthropy and media and is a highlight of the holiday social calendar in Manhattan. This year’s event honored The New York City Mission Society. In the best spirit of the season Shafiroff made a generous donation to the charity in honor of the attending guests. Shafiroff serves as a board member of The NYC Mission Society, which is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of children, youth, and families in New York City’s most underserved communities.
Attendees included: Jean Shafiroff, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, Geoffrey Bradfield, Lady Liliana Cavendish, Ike Ude, Matt Rich, Rachel Hirschfeld, Margo Langenberg, Margo Vonderstaar Catsimatidis, Roy Kean, Randi Schatz, Victor de Souza, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Lee Fryd, Carole Bellidora Westfall, Edgar Batista, Catherine Sabino, Debra Halpert, Diane Clehane, Joyce Brooks, Ernest Schmatolla and Francine LeFrak.
The event took place in the in the restaurant’s Garden Room, which was decorated with holiday-themed flowers. Guests enjoyed a healthy luncheon (kale Caeser salad, pan-seared salmon) and the chance to catch up with one another before heading to warmer locales for the week between Christmas and New Year’s. This is the fourth year Shafiroff has organized the event.
2016 was a big year for Shafiroff, Her book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give), a guide for both the aspiring and seasoned philanthropist, was published by Hatherleigh Press, Ltd. A volunteer fundraiser, leader and spokesperson for several charitable causes, Shafiroff serves on the boards of New York City Mission Society, New York Women’s Foundation, French Heritage Society, Couture Council (Museum of the Fashion Institute of Technology), Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services (20+ years), Southampton Animal Shelter Honorary Board, and Southampton Bath & Tennis Club’s Charitable Foundation. Each year she chairs numerous galas and hosts events benefiting numerous not-for-profit organizations.